Northern Beaches Coastal Walk

Stretching along the wild, windswept coastline of the Hunter Valley region, the Northern Beaches Coastal Walk is a breathtaking day hike that combines dramatic sea cliffs, secluded coves, and pristine surf beaches. This 10-kilometer track from Birubi Beach to Fingal Bay offers a quintessential Australian coastal experience, with panoramic views of the Tasman Sea and the distant outline of Port Stephens. It's a walk that rewards every step with raw natural beauty—think blowholes, rock platforms, and the chance to spot migrating whales between May and November.

Highlights & What to See

• Birubi Beach – Start at the southern end of Stockton Beach, where towering sand dunes meet the sea. The beach is popular for surfing and 4WD tours, but the walk begins with a gentle climb up the headland.
• Boulders Beach – A dramatic stretch of rocky shoreline dotted with enormous granite boulders, perfect for photography and exploring rock pools at low tide.
• Box Beach – A sheltered cove with crystal-clear water, ideal for a midday swim. The surrounding heathland blooms with wildflowers in spring.
• Fingal Bay – The walk ends at this crescent-shaped beach with a distinctive island (Fingal Island) just offshore. At low tide, a sandbar connects the mainland to the island, where you can explore the historic lighthouse.
• Tomaree Headland – A short but steep side trail (1 km return) leads to the summit of Tomaree Head, offering 360-degree views of Port Stephens, the coastline, and the hinterland. Don't miss this detour.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow a full day (5–7 hours) for the complete one-way walk, including time for swimming, photography, and the Tomaree Head detour. The track is well-formed but can be sandy and uneven in sections; sturdy shoes are essential. Most walkers arrange a car shuttle or use the local bus service (Port Stephens Coaches) to return to the start. If you prefer a shorter outing, the section from Birubi Beach to Box Beach (3 km each way) makes a lovely half-day walk.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Stephens – Just south of the walk, this aquatic playground offers dolphin-watching cruises, sandboarding on Stockton Beach, and the stunning Tomaree National Park.
• Nelson Bay – The main town in Port Stephens, with a lively marina, seafood restaurants, and the popular Nelson Bay Lighthouse Walk.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A vast wilderness of lakes, forests, and beaches about 30 minutes north, perfect for kayaking, birdwatching, and camping.
• Hunter Valley Wine Country – After your coastal adventure, head inland to Australia's oldest wine region, just an hour's drive away, for cellar-door tastings and gourmet dining.
• Stockton Beach – Famous for its sand dunes and shipwrecks, this 32-km beach is a popular spot for 4WD tours and sandboarding.

Please check official sources for current details.